Note: please note that this page should (a) link back to the issue overview on this topic, (b) be focused either the local, state, national, or global level, and (c) be neutrally presented, based on facts, and include footnotes for each of the items.  See the Research Guide and Information Sources to assist you. 

• Link here to the Youth Voice at the Local Level overview page.

Scope of the Problem  factual statements on the extent of the problem in the past, current, or future

There are widespread beliefs that youth are incapable of handling adult responsibilities. Young people are typically perceived as “problems to be solved” as opposed to “resources to be nurtured.”  Youth are aware of these perceptions: research demonstrates that many young people do not feel valued by their communities.  Indeed, there are limited opportunities for youth to meaningfully contribute to their communities.  This lack of opportunity weakens the development of young people’s civic-minded attitudes, skills and behaviors.

There are clear benefits to engaging young people in meaningful decision-making.  Youth engagement in decision-making empowers young people and makes them aware of their ability to effect change.  Youth are able to develop leadership skills while taking on responsibilities to change their worlds.  Communities also benefit from engaging young people in meaningful decision-making because it helps prepare a new generation of community leaders.  In addition, youth participation strengthens the ability of current leaders to effectively address youth issues.

Wisconsin needs to increase opportunities for youth voice in local, public decision-making efforts.  The inclusion of youth voice needs to become the norm.

Fortunately, many creative approaches have been developed to engage youth in their communities.  Five specific opportunities for youth participation have been identified:  public policy consultation, community coalitions, organizational governance, youth organizing, and school based service learning.  A healthy community needs youth involved in all these ways. 

This brief includes four models for involving youth in local public decision-making in Governing Boards, as advisors to Executives, members of School Boards and Communitywide Coalitions. 

Past Policy  key legislation and milestones including significant policy and funding shifts, major studies, etc.

• Past policies requiring or encouraging youth voice in public decision-making vary.

Current Policy  summary of current policies in the form of legislation, programs, and funding

• Current youth voice policies also vary based on location.  Some cities, counties and school districts in Wisconsin are implementing programs to increase youth voice and participation at the local level.  Current programs offer valuable models for youth participation and are highlighted in the next section.  However, these programs are the exceptions, not the norm. 

   

Key Organizations/Individuals   contacts for public and private organizations and key individuals

Bibliography   web sites, reports, articles, and other reference material 

• Calvert, M. & Allen, S. (2009).  Advancing youth voice in Wisconsin: A white paper.

   

• Camino, L., & Zeldin, S. (2003).  From periphery to center: Pathways for youth civic engagement in the day-to-day life of communities. Applied Developmental Science, 6(4), 213-220.

• Jerde, L.  (2009).  Saluting Flag: County Board’s Youth Effort Starts.  Portage Daily Register.  Retrieved March 10, 2009 from http://portagedailyregister.com/news/local/article_ef2f7b0c-edc8-11dd-b60f-001cc4c03286.html

• University of Wisconsin Extension, Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development.  (2009). Youth in Governance: Wisconsin.  Retrieved April 5, 2009 from http://www.uwex.edu/ces/4h/yig/

• University of Wisconsin Extension, Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development.  (2009). Youth in Governance: Youth Voice in Community Action and Governance.  Retrieved August 1, 2009 from http://kenosha.uwex.edu/4h/YIG.html